Gas and oil trap



June 26, 1928.

G. A. OVERSTROM GAS AND OIL TRAP Filed Oef. l2, 1925 .3 SlleetS-Sheel BY Q E A TTORNE Yi June 26, 1928.

G. A. OVERSTROM @As AND on. TRAP Filed Oct. 12, 1923 I5 Sheets-Sheet 3 INVENTOR BY QM Mw? ATTORNEY Patented June 26,9 1928.

GUSTAVE A. OVEBSTROM, 0F PASADENA, CALIFORNIA.

GAS AND OIL TRAP.

Application iled October 12, 1923.

This invention relates to traps designed to effect the separation of gas, oil, water and sand, or other constituents usually found in admixture with each other in the products issuing from oil wells.

The object of the invention is to provide a trap structure which is simple, economical to manufacture and efficient in operation.

Further object of the invention is to provide a trap for the purpose referred to, which is universal in operation, that is, is capable of use in handling the output of oil wells, whetherI of high, low or medium pressure or operated under vacuum.

Other objects of the invention will appear more fully hereinafter.

The invention consists in the location, combination and relative arrangement of parts, all as will be more fully hereinafter set forth, as sho'wn in the accompanying drawings and finally pointed out in the appended claims.

Referring to the drawings,

Fig. 1 is a View in vertical central section of a trap structure, embodying the principles of my invention. 4

Fig. 2 is a transverse section of the same on the line 2-2 of Fig. 1 looking in the direction of the arrows.

Fig. 3 isa broken detailed View in vertical Section on the line 3 3 of Fig. 2 looking in the direction of the arrows.

Fig. 4 is a broken detailed view in top plan of a corrugated or fluted and perforated aflle plate member employed in connection with my invention.

Fig, 5 is a broken detailed View in vertical section through the valve controlled gas outlet connection, at the upper end of the trap, the controlling valve being shown in open position.

Flg. 6 is a view similar to Fig. 5 showing the valve in closed position.

Fig. 7 is a broken detailed view in vertical section showing the valve controlled structure for the oil delivery connection at the lower end of the trap, the valve being in its closed position.

AFig. 8 is a similar view showing the valve in open position.

Fig. 9 is a broken detailed view showing the connection of the control valve stems or rods with the fioat member.

Fig. 10 is a detached detailed view intop plan of a form of float member, suitable for use in connection with my invention.

Serial No. 668,091.

Fig. 11 is a view in section on the line 11-11 Fig. 10 looking in the direction of the arrows.

Fig. 12 is a view similar to Fig. 5 showing a slightly modified arrangement of gas outlet valve controlled structure, the valve being in its open position.

Fig, 13 is a View similar to Figs. 5 and 12 showing another slightly modified structure of gas outlet control valve arrangement..

Fig. 14 is a view in top plan of the structure shown in Fig. 13, and

Fig. 15 is a vlew in section on the line 15-15 of Fig. 13 looking in the direction of the arrows.

In my joint application with` George Overstrom for gas and oil separators, Serial Number 649,396, filed July 5, 1923, issued as Patent No. 1,632,919 is shown, described and claimed a structure of gas and oil separator, which is more particularly designed and suitable for use under conditions of comparatively low pressure and low vacuum.

It is among the special purposes of my present invention to provide a structure which will operate under all conditions, from the lowest to the hi hest pressure, and from the lowest to the highest vacuum.

In the carrying out of my present invention, I propose to employ a separating or trap chamber in which is disposed to operate, a fioat member, which is suitably braced against collapsing under excessive pressures or excessive vacuum, and which is made sufficiently light and sensitive to permit operation thereof under the various actual conditions of pressure and vacuum encountered in the operation of oil wells. I also propose to employ valves to control the gas and oil outlet connections, which valves are opera-ted directly by the fioat member without intervening lever connections,\fu1crums, stuffing boxes or the like, and which valves are balanced under all pressures and are therefore independent of the pressure within the tank` or gas or oil delivery lines.

I also propose to employ a structure wherein the lioat member is required merely to overcome frictional resistance in its operation. I also propose to provide a trap structure which is free from adjustments, to accommodate it to various pressure or vacuum conditions, thereby eliminating the element of human interference in adapting the structure to operate under the varying conditions encountered.

l also propose to provide a structure wherein the valves which control the gas and oil outlet connections, are readily and easily accessible from the outside of the tank in order to facilitate repairs whenever required.

Another important feature of my invention is the provision in a trap structure-ot the nature referredto, of an oil outlet openventin ing into the tank at a height which is maintained at 'a point considerably above no at level thereby enabling me to utilize fully the height oit a tank for operation under vacnum, as well as pressure conditions without excessive increase in size, dimensionor weight of the float, and still maintain a large separating space for the oil and'gas.

l also propose to provide a trap structure wherein a uniform dow of oil delivered into the tank, is secured, such uniform low being mainly towards the center of the tank, thereby producing uniform settling conditions throughout and preventing disturbing eddy currents, Whirls and the like in the body of thejoil, which might result in a failure of eicient gas separation, and a consequent escape of gas through the oil outlet.

I also propose to provide a structure of trap wherein the ioa-t and valves carried thereby are free to rotate axially as well as to rise and fall with variations in the level,

thereby equalizing the Wear thereof and preinterruption ci the operation throng the sticking of these parts.

ll also propose to provide a structure of valves, particularly of the valve which controls the oil outletl connection in which abrasion due to fast iiowing oil carrying particles of ine sand does not aiiect the efficiency of the valve control.-

ll also provide means which are simple and eective to permit the escape of any gas accumulated from the mass of oil at the bottom of the tank.

l also propose to provide means to secure an initial or preliminary settling and separation of the incoming oil, gas, water and sand as delivered from the well into the tank, and to provide means whereby the delivery of the incoming oil `is e'ected into a body of oil and sand within the tank, thereby breaking up and destroying or relieving,

if not destroying, the cutting force of any sand carried in the emulsion delivered from the well.

Another A'infiportant and valuable feature of my present invent-ion is the provision in a trap structure of means to allow the full tif) pipe opening for both the oil and gas de livery connections from the tank when the trap is Working under normal conditions and theclosing of the one pr the other of the valves when an abnormal condition'is encountered without closing either wholly or partially the other of said valves.

1n El ,674,699

facture is preferably in the form of an elonl gated open ended cylinder, closed at its top by a cover 21, and at its bottom bythe sand and water settling cone member 22. iihe mixture of gas, cih/sand and water, etc. from the oil well is delivered into the tank somewhat above the middle of thetank cylinder 2 0, through the connection 23. llmmediateiy above the connection 23, a man hole opening-through the wall ot the shell is provided which is closed by detachable cover 2e. Mounted within the shell 20 is what l term an overflow trough including a cylinder portion 25 which is centrally disposed with reference to the shell 2O and a depending cone portion 26 which is welded or otherwise secured at its lower and larger peripheral edge to the inner wall of the shell 20.

The central cylindrical ortion 25 of the overflow trough'is dispose opposite the supply connection opening 23`Jandthe upper open edge of said cylindrical portion extends slightly above said supply opening 23 while the cone shape portion 26 extends downwardly'below the supply opening 23. This forms an annular space 27 in which a preliminary separation ofoil, sand, water and gas takes place. -Such lpreliminary settling of the sand and water causes a bed of sand to be-built up in thev trough or space 27,

was

and it'is into the body of oil, sand and water thus built up within the space 27 that the incoming material is delivered. rll`his serves to break up the cutting force of the sand contained in the incoming emulsion and consequently reduces or prevents wear resulting from such cutting force.

f In order to still further reduce the abradl in or cutting action of the incoming sand de ivered along with the emulsion into the tank upon the working parts of the apparatus, I provide an abrading plate or member 28 which is mounted upon the Atrough opposite the delivery opening 23.

This 'wearing plate 28 is made removable illu llo

so that when worn through the cutting action ing 23,' sa-id apron having an upturned edge E flange 3() which is positioned 4in proximity to the inner surface of the shell 20 above the delivery opening 23. The provision of this apron 29 and :its upturned flange 30 causes the incoming flow of material to flow annularly around the upper end of the' trough and eventually to spill over the upper edge of the cylindrical portion Q5 thereof, into the space within the tank below said trough. Openings 31 are formed through the cone portion 26 of the trough adjacent its lower' edge to permit a part of the accumulated preliminary settlement in the annular space E27, consisting `mainly of sand and water to drip throughthe cone 2G into the lower portion of the shell, instead of being carried up and spilling over the. upper edge of the cylindrical portion 25. Of course when there is an absence of water in the mixture delivered into the tank, some of the oil will drip through the opening 3l.

In practicey I prefer to omit any drip openings 31 at points directly beneath the opening 23. This results in the building up' of a mass of sand, oil and water in the space 27 opposite the inlet opening 23. The incoming stream of oil, Water, sand and gas impinges upon this built up body thereby breaking up thel force of the incoming stream, before it reaches the wearing plate 28, its energy being expended against and absorbed by the mass of collected sand. water and oil. I regard this as a valuable fea- -ture of my invention. particularly when very high pressures of incoming material are to be handled as it substantially increases the life of the apparatus, and moreover by requiring the greater portion of the incoming material to rise above the level of the inlet opening. and to spill over the upper edge of the cylindrical portion 25 of the trough. and the provision of the apron 29 to prevent splashing of the incoming mass. I am enabled to secure a uniform overflow of the incoming material, all the way around the upper edge of the portion 25 of the trough. The water being heavier than ther oil sinks readily to the bottom of the trough together with the sand. and possibly some of the oil, when little or no water is present in the mixture delivered.

As above indicated, the water. sand and oil, if any, which thus collects in the trough and space 27, or a portion thereof, drip through the openings 3l in comparatively small streams, which are distributed at desii-able distances apart all the Way around the interior wall of the shell. except, as explained. at points directly beneath the inlet opening 23.

.These small trickling streams of water. or water and oil` or oil as the case may be. carry with them a portion of the sand. particularly where fine sandMis encountered. The large particles of sand fall by gravity into the main body of oil contained in the tank, thus gaining acceleration in thelfall' thereof, and hence increasing their settling velocity after reaching the oil beyond what it would have if allowed to run down the inner wall surface of the shell along with the regular downflow of oil.

This operation enables the incoming sand and water or a portion thereof to quickly reach the lower part of the tank, and leaving' comparatively little Sand or water to be carried along with the current of oil towards the center of the tank, and the overflow thereof into the upper open end of the portion 25 of the trough. There is comparatively small danger of the openings or holes 31 becoming plugged or filled up solong as these holes are of greater diameter than the thickness of the member 26 in which they are formed. Some of the oil which overflows into the upper open end of the portion 25 of the trough, will drip into the tank from the point 32 and fall down on to the upper end surface of thefloat below and presently to be described, and will follow down they outside wall of the float into the lower tion of the tank. y

Other portions of the .oil which spills over into the open upper end of the trough will run down the inside surface of the cone portion 26 until it reaches the'inner wall of the shell and then will flow down the shell surface. That part ofthe oil which drips from the point 32 aswell as that part which flows down the inner Wall of the shell will not materially interfere with the settling of the water and sand or water, oil and sand which drips through the holes 31.

By the arrangement described I am enabled to secure a more efficient and rapid separation, andthe danger of carrying sand over into theV oil up-take presently to be described is minimized. The sand and water which collect in the cone shaped portion 22 at the lower end of the tank is drawn olf therefrom in any suitable or convenient manner, as for instance through outlet 33. If desired, this outlet 33 may be connected to the usual sand drums (not shown) according to preferred practice.

The gas which separates out from the oil, sand and` water. will rise into the upper part of the tank where it may, if desired, be passed over bullies' or through scrubbers to insure further separation of gas from any enclosing molecules of oil. Inasmuch as the gas frequently becomes enclosed within minute oil bubblemwhich by reason of their gas carrying oil bubbles are punctured. To,

accomplish this result I caused the ascending column of gas to pass through a series `Vof inverted cone shaped disks or plates 33,

which are disposed within the shell 2O at the upper end thereof, the successive cone plates being disposed respectively over each other. Each of 'these plates is preferably corrugated or fluted radially as indicated at 34, and I form roughened punch holes or pcrforations with roughened edges indicated at through the raised ridges of the fluted plates 33.

In practice the lower open ends of the successive plates 33 are of decreasing size or diameter towards the upper end of the shell, these openings being preferably .centrally disposed with relation tothe shell. The gas volume impinging against the under surface of the successive corrugated or fluted members follows such surfaces and are deiected by the lower closed channels of said members into the intermediate upper channels, oi ridges, which are perforated with the holes with roughened edges and passing vthrough such rough edge openings any bubble of oil filled with gas will become punctured thereby releasing the gas and permitl,ting the oil, 'when the gas is released, therefrom, to trickle back into the shell down the lower inclined surfaces ofthe fluted members.v

I will now describe the gas outlet and oil outlet connections. These connections are located respectively at the upper and lower ends of the trapk Their structures are identical and therefore a detailed description of the one will apply equally as Well to the other. 4

Attached at each end of the trap is a T connection 36, with a horizontal outlet or outlet vopening 37, the upper one for gas and the lower one for oil. Disposed in each T connection or the head portion of such T is a sleeve 38 having one or more openings 39 into an 'annular channel 4() formed in thehead of the T connection 36, and which registers with the outlet opening 37. The outer end of each of the T connections 36 is closed by a cover plate 41. Fitting and operating Within each sleeve 38 is a cylinder slidevalve 42. These valves are open at both ends, and therefore are balanced valves. To'each Valve 42 at a point at the interior thereof is connected a rod 43 which connect the valves to the cap 44 of the ioat member, whereby the valves are operated up and down in unison by the float. The connection of the rods 43 to the valves 42 may be edected in any suitable or convenient manner. I have shown spiders 45 mounted within each valve 42, and connected thereto,

Lev-ieee the respective remote ends of the rods 43 being anchored in the hub portions of the spiders 45. I

The valves 42 are so spaced apart with relation to each other and so assembled With relation to the sleeves 38, and delivery openings 37 with which they cooperate that When one valve is in closed position, as shown at the bottom, for example in Fig. 1 the other valve is inwide open position, an when the valves are vshifted by the fioat, the valves are carried into position to permit both outlet connections 37 to be wide open at the same time. 1

By reason of this arrangement it Will be seen that when one of the valves closes its outlet, the other remains Wide open, no matter which outlet is closed. In other Words, when one valve closes the other is not opened, but remains open. Consequently according to the operation of the float within the tank, either one or the other of the outlet openings 37 may beopened and closed, While the other outlet opening remains open during both operations.

In Fig. 5 I have shownV the gas control valve-42 in open position, while in Fig. 6 the saine valve is shown in closed position.

In Fig. 7 I have shown the oil control valve 42 in closed position with reference to its delivery opening 37, and in Fig. 8 I have shown the same valve in open' position.

Instead of providing the sleeve with a series of openings 39', each open into the annularl channel 40, and whether for the gas or the oil control valve structure, I have shown such sleeve 38 in Fig. 12 as provided with a single opening 39 in the wall thereof,

`which' is disposed diametrically opposite the delivery opening 37. Such a structure reduces any tendency to leak, although it slightly, although iiiappreciably increases the friction of the operation. Such a structure and arrangement, however, I desire to include Within the scope ofr my invention.

The float to which the valve rods 43 are connected may be of any suitable or desired structuie. In the form shown, the float conssts of a cylindrical member or portion 46 disposed within the shell 20 below thecone trough structure above described. The ends of this cylindrical portion are closed by the cover portions 47. These are inclined or cone shaped and areoppositely `disposed With reference to eachother, the larger ends of the cones being received in the open ends of the cyl'ndrical portion 46. Extending centrally through the cylindrical ort-ion 46, and through central openings in t ie cone portions 47, is a cylindrical member 48, the lower end of which terminates in the mouth or opening of the lower cone member cover 47 The upper end of the cylinder 48 projects through the upper cone cover member 47 and up into the cylindrical portion 25 of the overflow trough, when the oil delivery control valve is in its closed position as shown in Fig. 1. The extreme upper end of the tubular member 48 is closed by the cap 44 to .which as above explained, the piston rods 43 are connected. The lower end of the tubular member 48 opens freel into the lower portion of the shell. If esired and preferable, a check valve 49 which seats inwardly is mounted in the cap 44. Extending up through the lower open end of the tubular member 48 is an Oil delivery pipe connection 50, the upper end of which extends well up near the upper closed end of tubular member 48. This oil delivery pipe connection communicates in a suitable manner through the valve controlled openings 39, 39 with the oil delivery opening 37. Mounted within the tubular member 48 and extending longitudinally thereof are wings 51 which serve the purpose of guiding the float structure in its up and down movement, and malntaining the same in centered relation with respect to the delivery pipe connection 50.

In order to still further center and guide the oat in its up 'and down movements, suitable rollers 52 may, if desired, be mounted upon the inner wall of the shell 2 0, to engage, guide and center the cylindrical portion 46 of the float. Likewise guiding members 53 may be' arranged Within the 0verhow trough members 25, 26 to engage, guide and center the tubular member 48 of the float.

Instead of the oil delivery T connection 3G being applied directl `to the lower end of the cone portion 22 ot the shell, I prefer to employ a member 54 the outer wall of which is fastened to the *lower end of-t-he cone member 22, and against the lower end oi' which member 54 the-T fitting is applied. This member 54 is provided with a central upwardly extending tubular section 55, to the upper end of which is fastened the lower ud of the oil delivery pipe 50. The structure just described is simple and effi cient, and enables the parts to be economically manufactured and quickly and easily assembled, or detached and removed where necessity therefor arises. In the structure shown, it will be seen that the-sleeve member 38, or the u per end thereof, extends up into the centra tubular portion 55 of the closure member 54.

The valve rods 43 may be connected to `the cap 44 ot the ioat structure in any suitable or convenient manner. In Fig. 9 I have shown a simple and efficient structure lor this purpose., wherein the cap 44 is provided with a central boss 56, through which is lormed a threaded bore. (')ppositely disd studs 5i', have threaded shanks 58 lith are screwed into this threaded bore until their ends abut against each other. Une

of the studs'57 may shoulder against one end of the boss 56, while the set nut 59 carried by one of the threaded Shanks 58 abuts against the other end of the boss, thus clamping and rigidly holding the studs in position.

W hen thus assembled, a hole 60 is drilled transversely through the faces or abutting surfaces of the threaded ends 58 and through the boss 56, to receive a transversely extending pin, thereby locking the studs in assembled position against relative rotative displacement and hence likewise holding the piston rods and valves against relative rotary movement. The piston rods 43 are shown tubular, and the approximate ends of said rods slip over the studs 57 and are fastened thereon by transverselyextending pins 61. Thus I provide an exceedingly strong, durable connection of the piston rods, together, and to the fioat structure in rigid relation. rlhe parts are simple and easily constructed and assembled.

ln practice I prefer to provide the top cover or plate 21 of the trap shell with an opening 62, to which, if desired, a safety valve may be attached.

Il required and preferably, the cylindrical portion 4G of the float may be braced interiorly against the collapsing action of exteriorly applied pressures. For this purpose I shave shown a bracing ring member 63 disposed within the float member 46.

ln case of the accumulation of dirt, or other foreign substances, particularly in the lower portion of theoil delivery T 36, the same may be removed by providing the closure cap 4l of said T connection with an opening 64 for connection thereto of a suitable drain connection or stop cock.

llt may some times be desirable to be able to observe the position of the float within the shell. To permit this I provide a rod 6G, (see Fig. 13) connected to the valve 42, or the spider 45 thereof, and which extends vertically through an opening 67 formed in the cap 41 at the upper end of the T conthe provision of a stuiiing box I prefer to screw a transparent tubular member 68 into the opening -67 of cap 41, the eXtreme upper end of said transparent tube being closed by a cap 69 and the upper cnd of the rod 66 works in this closed tube 68, thereby enabling the position of ne float. to be ascertained at a glance at any time during the working of the apparatus.

It may sometinles be desirable to test the movement oi the float to ascertain whether or not it is freely movable, and to prevent the possibility ot the same hccoining stuck. In Fig 13 l have, shown an arrangement which will permit `these results to be ac- `couiplished and wherein a standard is mounted on the rap 41, which closes the becoming stuck against free vertical move- V ment. l ll may sometimes be desirable to positively. lock the cap which closes the upper end of the cylindrical portion 48 of the? float structure against rotative movement with respect to said tubular member 48. ln Figs. and 1l I have shown means for accomplishing this purpose wherein the cap member 44 has a pawl vor dog 74 pivotally mounted vupon its'outer surface, the free end of said dog being adapted to engage one or another -of slots 75 in the upper en surface of the tubular member 48.

ln some types of vloat'structures, in place of the bottom wall of the float being cone shaped as formedby the cone 47 shown in Fig. 1, the said' bottom wall may be concaved forming an annular chamber 7 5 in the bottom .wall surface of the oat as shownin Fig. 11. With such a structure it some times occurs that gas, which is not separated from the oil in the upper part of the trap.

will accumulate in the space 75 thereby altering the buoyancy of the float and interf tering with its proper operation. To prevent this in such a type of float, suitable pipe connections 76 extend vertically through the Heat chamber and the interior bracing rings 77 thereof, which pipes open free communication between the annular chamber -75and the space within the casing above the oat.

lt will be understood that the buoyancy level of the ,float is substantially at the mid length point of the float as indicated by 'the dotted lineA in Fig. 1. At the dotted line BB in F ig.v 1 is indicated the `buoyancy level of the float within the shell 20 at which the floatexerts its maximum upward thrust and Eli the level indicated at the dotted line CC in Fig. 1 corresponds with the buoyancy level. of the float when the float is exerting its maximum downward pull.

It will'be observed that the only work which the up and down movements ofthe float are required to perform, is the shifting Aof the valves 42. Since these valves are balanced only the frictional resistance 'thereof in their movements in sleeves 38 is to be overcome. Ordinarily this frictional resistance is ligured at about eighty pounds, whereas the float is proportioned to exert The mixture of oil, gas, water, sand and the like from theioil well is then delivered into the trap through the connection 23.' The incoming stream of the mixture flows into and fills the annular space 27 which surrounds the overflow trough device, thereby permitting a preliminary settlement of sand and water into the space 27 so as to build up, particularly at. a point opposite the inflow opening 23, a bed of sand and water and possibly some oil, to receive the impact of the incoming stream of the mixture.

*The level of the oil rises in the annulard space 27 until the oil finally spills over the upper open end of the portion of the overflow trough being thereby delivered uniformly and without eddies or whirls, into the chamber of casing 20 below the overflow trough, the sand and water, and perhaps some oil, dripping through the openings 31 of the overflow trough into the tank beneath said trough.

The apron 29, with its upturned flange 30, prevents the incoming oil flow from splashing over the upper edge of the over- How trough and directs the flow of incoming oil annularly into and around the space 27, thereby also aiding in breaking up any eddies and whirls and enabling a uniform overflow of the oil over the upper edge of the overflow trough and into the trap chant ber. llf it be assumed that the mixture is delivered into the trap at a comparatively low pressure, say for example, at a pressure of one pound, the oil accumulates in the trap chamber or in the lower part'thereof until the float be ins 'to rise. Therefore, no oil can reach1t e oil outlet connections 37 at the bottom of the trap for the reason that the pressure within the tank is insuiiicient to cause the oil to rise up from the lower part of the casing through the'bore of the cylinder member 48 of the float to a height suliicient for such oil to spill over into the oil outlet pipe connection 50. Consequently the 'ifioat structure will continue to rise. as oil accumulates in the trap until eventually the valve 42 which controls the gas outlet is closed. ylhe' closure of this valve increases the pressure within the trap sufficiently to force the oil in the trap chamber up through the bore of the tubular member 48 of the float to a. height enabling it to spill over into the upper end of the oil delOO livery connection 50, the level ofthe oil in the tank correspondingly falling.

`When the oil spills over'tlie upper open end of the oil delivery pipe Vconnection 50, a syphonicaction is inaugurated which would drain out the oil from the'trap if the oil flow is only light, but since the lowering of the levelof the oil in the-trap resulting from the Vflow ot' the oil into the oil delivery pipe connection 50 is resulted in lowering the oat, the gas valve 42 at the top of the trap is again opened, and consequently the pressure Withincthe trap is reduced by the resulting delivery of gas from the trap through the gas delivery `connection 37. 'lhe result will be that the float will descend thereby closing gradually the oil control valve 42 vuntil a balanced condition of `pressure within the tank is again obtained. The same operation takes place whatever may be the pressure under which the mixture is delivered into the trap as well as in the operation of the trap under vacuum conditions.

In practice it has been found that there is usually some gas pressure delivered from an oil well, and 'if the trap is to operate on a vacuum, such vacuum is produced by suction from suitable gas compressors or the like, introduced into the gas delivery connection.

In, such case, starting with the trap empty, the suction is started and the oil will till up within the tank outside of the float, and also will rise within the central bore of tubular member 4S of the float as the air and gas escapes from the trap and from the float through the check valve 49. lVhen, however, the buoyancy level of the float is reached, the float will gradually rise, thereby shutting oil' the suction and hence building up the pressure within the trap suliciently to elevate the oil level within the tubular member 48, until it eventually spills over into the oil delivery pipe connection 50. This starts the delivery flow of the oil from the trap which produces a suction on the oil, and the float will then start to descend again, thereby again opening more or less the gas delivery valve 42, thereby relieving the pressure Within the trap in the same manner as above described with low pressure delivery of the mixture 'into' the trap.

Where the mixture is delivered into the` trap under high pressure, the oil will rise through the central bore of the tubular member 4S of the float, as fast as thecheck valve 49 permits the escape of air and gas therefrom, thereby' enabling the oil level in said bore to quickly reach the top ot the oil delivery pipe connection 50 and spill over the upper open end of the same.

Thus it will be seen that in practically most instances encountered in practice, the oil influx controls the oil level within the trap. rIhis level will rise and falll according to the iloat contro] of the balanced valves 42 which respectively control the oil and gas delivery connections 37. It' the oil tlow into the trap increases, the tloat will rise thereby shifting the oil delivery control valve and permitting a correspondingly increased amount of oil to How `trom the trap. It' the oil flow decreases, the oil level Within the trap will correspondingly fall. Meanwhile the gas outlet remains wide open until a rush of oil delivery into the trap takes place of such volume that the oil outlet pipe Wide open cannot take care of the oil delivery flow trom the trap. When this takes place the oil rises above the buoyancy level of the float and the gas outlet is closed olf. As-soon as the' oil tlow falls to a point where the oil delivery pipe connection can take care ot' the oil delivery from the trap, the float will again drop down gradually and the gas control valve will open and the delivery of gas will result.

Ordinarily a sufficient amount of oil, after theoperatioin has been started, accumulates within the bore ot the tubular-.member 4S of the float" to prevent violent fluctuations or up and down movements of the float.A

The provision of the longitudinally extending vanes or members 51, on the inner wall surface ot' the bore of tubular member 48 of the float, tends to prevent any undue fluctuations or whirls within the column otl oil which ascends through this bore.

It is obvious that many of the details which I have shown and described are not essential, and in some casses may be omitted all together.

From the foregoing description -it will be seen that I provide an exceedingly simple and eiicient trap structure which is universal in operation, that is, which may he employed to handle either high pressure, medium pressure or low pressure, or even vacuum operation without requiring any adjustments or special care or attention on the part of attendants, thus eliminating the possibility of human error in the handling oi the apparatus.

It will also be seen that I provide for breaking up and preventing the formation of eddies or whirls in the mixture or emulsion handled by the apparatus. The structure is economical'to manufacture and assemble. It is automatic in operation and except for the control of the discharge connections requires no special attention when in operation.

Having now set forth the objects and nature of my invention, und structures cmbodying the principles thereof, what claim as new and useful, and ot' my own invention and desire to secure by Letters Patent l. In a trap for separating the products delivered lfrom oil wells', a casingl into which such products are delivered, said casing having` gas and oil outlet connections, a oat arranged within said casing, valves connected to said float to respectively control said openings, a transparent closure closed at its outer end-and communicating at its inner end with said casing, and a rod carried by the float and extending into said closure.

2. ln a trap of the class described, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall thereof, and gas and oil outlet openings respectively disposed at the vupper and lower ends thereof, a float, and. valves connected to said float to respectively control said outlets, in combination with duted plates successively disposed the one above another in said casing above the inlet opening and below the gas outlet opening,v said tinted plates having roughened perforations therethrough.

3. ln a trap of the class described, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall thereof, andgas and oil outlet openings respectively disposed at they upper and lower ends thereof, a float, and valves connected to said float to respectively control said outlets, in combination with fiuted plates successively disposed the one above another in said casing above the inlet opening and below the gas outlet openings, said luted plates being perforated through the raised ridges of the flutes thereof.

4.. lin a trap of the class described, a casing having an inlet opening through the sidewall thereof, and gas and oil outlet openings respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a float and valves connected to-said float to respectively control said outlets, in combination with tinted plates successively disposed the one above another in .said casing above the inlet openingand below the gas outlet openings, said iuted plates beingof disked or conical form.

with centralopenings therethrough. i

5. ln a trap of the class described.i a casing having anv inlet opening through the side wall therefor, and gas and oil outlet openings respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a float and valves connected to said float to respectively control said outlets, in combination with luted plates successively disposed the one above another in said casing abovethe inlet opening and below the gas outlet openings, said duted plates being of disked or conical form with central openings therethrough,the central openings in said plates being of decreasing diametertowards the upper end of the casing.

G. ln a trap of the class described, a casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends of said casing, valves to control said outlets, a' loat structure arranged for fr'ee movement in said casing, said float structure inlmember andhaving connection respectivelywith said valves, and means to lock said rods against other.

8. ln a trap of the class described, a casdisplacement relatively to each 'ing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends of said casing, valves to control said outlets, adoat structure arranged for free movement in said casing, said float structure including a cap member, and rods secured to said cap member and having connection respectively with said valves, and means to lock said cap member against rotation movement relative to the float structure. l

9. ln a trap of the class described, a casing having and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends of said casing, valves to. control said outlets, a float structure arranged `for free movement in said casing, said floatstructure including a cap member, having aicentral hub boss, screw plugs fitted in said boss, and rods connected to said screw plugs and to said valves.

l0. In a trap 'of the class described, a casing, a float structure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion to a point above. the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the casing chamber below the oat, an oil delivery pipe connection 'extending into said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, and an oil outlet from the casing communicating with the lower end of said delivery :pipe connection.

l1. ln a trap of the class described, a casn ing, a float structuredisposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion to a point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the -casing chamber below the oat, an oil rdelivery pipe connection stationarily held and extending into .said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, an oil outlet from the casing connnunicating with the lower end of said delivery )ipe connection, and a valve connected to the oat structure and Htl operating to control the communication between said delivery pipe connection and said the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the casing chamber below the float, an oil delivery pipe connection extending into said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, longitudinally extending wings or vanes disposed in the space between said tubular member and the delivery pipe connection, and an oil outlet from the casing communicating with the lower end of said delivery pipe connection.

13. In a trap of the class described, a casing, a float fstructure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion to a point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the casing chamber below the float, an oil delivery pine connection extending into said tubular member through the lower open end .thereof and to a point above the float body,

a check valve in the closed end of said tubular member, and an oil outlet from the casing communicating with the lower end of said delivery pipe connection.

14. In a trap of the class described, a casing, a fioat structure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion toa point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the casing chamber below the float, an oil delivery pipe connection extending into said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, a fitting having an outer wall portion secured to the lower end of the casing and a central tubular portion fitted to the lower end of said delivery pipe connection, a T head fitting secured to the lower end of said fitting and communicating with said tubular portion. said "i' head fitting having an oil outlet opening therefrom.

l5. ln a trap of the class described, a casing. a float structure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular `member extending centrally through the wly portion to a point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being vl-weed and the lower end freely opening into i msi. chamber below the float, an oil delivery pipe `connection ierttending into said tubular member through the lower open end tit .eof and to a point above the float body,

a fitting having an outer wall portion secured to the lower end of the casing and a central tubular portion fitted to the lower end of saiddelivery pipe connection, and a valve connected to said float structure and operating to control said oil outlet openinfr.

16. In a trap of the class describe a casing, a float structure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion to a point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely opening into the casing chamber below thelfloat, an oil delivery pipe connection extending into said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, a fitting having an outer wall portion secured to the lower end of the casing and a central tubular portion fitted to the lo'wer end of said delivery pipe connection, a -T head fitting secured to the lower end of said fitting and communicating with said tubular portion, said T head fitting having an oil outlet opening therefrom, a sleeve tting in said T head and extending into said tubular portion, said sleeve having an opening in communication with said oil outlet opening, and a valve disposed in said sleeve and connected to said float structure for controlling said communication.

17. In a trap of the class described, a casing, a float structure disposed therein and having a closed body portion and a tubular member extending centrally through the body portion to a point above the latter, the upper end of the tubular member being closed and the lower end freely o ening into the casing chamber below the oat, an oil delivery pipe connection extending into said tubular member through the lower open end thereof and to a point above the float body, a fitting having an outer wall portion secured to the lower end of the casing and a central .tubular portion fitted to the lower end of said delivery pipe'connection, said fitting having communication With an oil outlet opening, a drain connection through the wall portion of said fitting, and a valve operating in said fitting and connected to the float structure to control the oil outlet openin 18. In a trap for separating the pro ucts delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through tbe side wall thereof through which the products to be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets, in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the casing above the float structure and op site said inlet openin i.

19. In a trap :tor separating the proc ucts delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall thereof through which the products to -be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing hav.

ing gas and oil outlets respectively .disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a ioat structure disposed within said casing and i valves connected thereto for respectively' conthe inner wall of the casing.

20. In a trap for separating the products delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall Athereof through which the products to beseparated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a iioat structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respecu tively controlling said gas and oil outlets,

lin combination with an overiiow trough structure disposed within the casing above the float structure and opposite said inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion and a lower conical portion tod provide an annular trough or space between said overfiow structure and the inner wall of the casing, said lower conical portion having drain openings therethrough from said trough into the casing.

21. In a trap for separating the products delivered :from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall thereof through which the products to bel separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposedv at the upper and lower ends thereof, a Heat structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets in combinationwith an overflow trough structurel disposed within the casing above the lioat structure and opposite sald inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion extending to a plane above the inlet'opening, and a lower con ical portion connecting at its lower edge to 'the inner wall of the casing.

22. In a trap :tor separating the products delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the side Wall thereof through which the products to be separated aire delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the Yupper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respecv invece@ tively controlling said gas and oil outlets-in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the casing above the l'loat structure and oppositesaid inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion extending to a plane above the inlet opening, and a lower conical portion connecting at its lower edge to the inner wall et the casing, and a splash apron extending/laterally from the upper edge of said tubular portion towards the inner wall of said casing, above said inlet opening.

23. In a trap for separating the products delivered frein oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the said wall thereof through which the products to be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets-respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a iioat structure disposed within said cas ing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oiloutlets in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the casing above 'the float structure and opposite inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion extending to a plane above the inlet opening, and a lower conical portion connecting at its lower edge to the inner wall of the casing, and a splash apron extending laterally from the upper edge of said tubular portion towards the inner wall of said casing, above said inlet opening, said apron having an upturned flange at its outer edge.

24. In a trap for separating the products delivered from' oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening throughthe side wall thereof through which the products to be separated are delivered into the easing, said casing having gas andoil outlets respectively (lisposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a fioat structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets, in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the casing above the float structure and opposite said inlet opening, said overfiow trough structure including `an upper tubular port-ion and a lower conical portion to provide an annular trough or space between said overflow structure and inner wall of the casing and a wearing plate carriedby said overliow trough structure and disposed opposite said mlet opening.

2 5. In a trap for separating the products delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the side wall thereotl through which the products to be separated are delivered into the easing, said casing having gas and-oil outlets respectively disposed at thel upper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing, and

valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets, in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the casing above the float structure and 'opposite said inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion and'a lower conical portlon to provide an annular trough or space between said overflow structure and inner wall of the casing and a wearing plate carried by said overflow trough structure and disposed opposite said inlet opening, said wearing plate being detachable and removable.

26. In a trap for se arat-ing the products delivered from oil wel s, a casing having an inlet o ening through the side wal-l thereof throng i which t-he products to be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets, in combination with an overflow trough structure disposed within the .casing above the float structure and opposite said inlet opening, said overflow trough structure including an upper tubular portion and a lower conical portion to provide an annular trough or space between said overflow structure and inner wall of the casing and a wearing plate carried by said overflow trough structure and disposed opposite said inlet opening, said wearing plate being detachable'and removable, said casing having a man hole opening through the wall thereof above said inlet opening.

27. In a trap for separatingthe products delivered from oil wells, a casing having an inlet opening through the'side wall thereof through which the products to be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having-gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof,

`or trough within the casin a float structure dis osed within said casing,.4

and 'valves connecte thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets in combination with means to build up a mass of the products delivered into the casing, at a point opposite said inlet opening, to receive the impact of the incoming products. v

28. In a trap for separating` the products delivered :from oil wells, a casing having an inlet openingnthrough the side wall thereof through which the products to be separated are delivered into the casing, said casing having gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing, and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets in combination with means to formv an annular channel or trough Within the casing opposite said inlet opening and above said float, and into which channel the incoming products are delivered.

29. In a trap for separating the products delivered from oil wells, a casing having anA inlet opening through the side wall thereof throu h which the products to be separated are de ivered into the casing, said casing havig gas and oil outlets respectively disposed at. the upper and lower ends thereof, a float structure disposed within said casing,"and valves connected thereto for respectively controlling said gas and oil outlets in combination with means to form an annular channel opposite said inlet opening and above sai which channel the incoming products are float, and int-o delivered, said channelV delivering over its e 

